The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Staff Sergeant Frank Flores, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 14 August 1968 while per participating in an army training test of the 1st Squadron, 18th Armored Cavalry, at Fort Lewis, Washington. During an attack on a simulated Viet Cong base camp, an artillery simulator was accidentally thrown into the armored personnel carrier in which Sergeant Flores was riding as a crew member. Reacting with great presence of mind and disregarding great personal risk to himself, Sergeant Flores immediately recovered the simulator and threw it clear of the vehicle just before it exploded. As a result of his selfless actions, Sergeant Flores and his comrades escaped serious injury. The actions of this outstanding cavalryman reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Squadron, 18th Armored Cavalry, and the United States Army and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service.